After what felt like years of waiting, we’re finally deep into sad girl autumn. I’m a sucker for summer’s warm weather, but I’m currently appreciating the lightness in the air on my daily hot girl walks. Autumn doesn’t have to be completely depressing—there’s a way to lean into the melancholy of the season. My secret to getting through (and enjoying) sad girl autumn is, of course, music. In the wake of Brat summer, it’s time to add some slower sounds to my playlists this fall.

As a certified sad girl during fall, I tap into my two passions—astrology and music—to channel the essence of the season to its fullest potential. With the eclipse season in full swing, each zodiac sign will experience this fall differently. Each sign’s fall horoscopes hint at an overall shift, from big life changes to a much-needed slow in pace. Read on to see which song is your zodiac sign’s sad girl autumn anthem.

Aries

Aries signs are known for their fiery personalities, and this fall, they’ll feel as bold as ever. This season, one of the full moons will be in Aries, hinting that this sign will receive some much-needed clarity. Whether at work or in their personal relationships, Aries will need to trust themselves and step out of the box, just like Lizzy McApline always does. Doomsday is jam-packed with chill yet commanding transformative vibes that suggest letting go of a relationship gone wrong. With this track, Lizzy will have Aries feeling like Doomsday has passed until winter.

Taurus

Taurus’ calendars are always full, so this sign should utilize the quietude of fall for a much-deserved break. making the bed embodies the stubbornness for which Taurus is infamous. In this song, Olivia Rodrigo looks back on the hurt she endured at her own hands after staying in a relationship that wasn’t serving her. With the fast-paced season of summer long behind us, Taurus should listen to making the bed whenever they’re feeling stuck or frustrated this fall.

Gemini

It’s time for Gemini to embrace their really sad girl side this fall. Known for their self-assurance and unpredictability, this sign should tap into their vulnerability with this song. In Fade Into You, Mazzy Star goes back and forth between choosing to let someone go or prioritize herself. This song has a rhythmic yet upbeat tempo that masks its true vulnerability—just like a complex Gemini would. Mazzy Star recognizes that she has to pick herself at the end of the day, with this lyric standing out as so Gemini: “I look to you and I see nothing / I look to you to see the truth.”

Cancer

Cancer signs are typically always in tune with their emotions, and this autumn is the perfect time for them to channel any built-up downhearted energy into music. This song encapsulates that and much more as Ethel Cain references her religious upbringing across the fictional storytelling of her groundbreaking album Preacher’s Daughter. The song is rather haunting, as Ethel puts her modern spin on the dark subject matter. Even if Cancers can’t resonate with the content of the song, they’ll definitely appreciate the dark, moody energy of Family Tree.

Leo

Fall is full of change, and there’s no time like now for Leo to mourn the loss of summer. Shifting out of their prime time, loml from The Tortured Poet’s Department is the perfect song to mourn the season and get ready for what’s to come. From time to time, sitting in solace and reminiscing on past memories is much-needed, especially for Leo as the sun shifts out of this sign’s spotlight. Taylor’s lyrics encapsulate the idea of loving and not wanting to let go so clearly, there’s no doubt that every Leo added this track onto their autumn playlist as the dramatic yet emotional sign they are.

Virgo

For Virgos, it can be difficult to immerse themselves in sad girl autumn. Instead of focusing on the complexities of life, Virgo tends to stay grounded. Sure, fall includes Virgo season, but this sign can struggle to trade practicality with vulnerability. Thank You off of Clairo’s most recent album, Charm, blends those sentiments seamlessly while still maintaining Virgo’s strength and admitting their deeper insecurities. In this song, Clairo sings about being thankful for a former lover, even though their time together has ended—perfect for a Virgo who’s reminiscing.

Libra

One of the most charming signs of the zodiac, Libras are inherently kind and loving. While Libra prioritizes balance this fall, the season brings in a sense of certainty akin to How to disappear by Lana Del Rey. Libra’s are all about finding balance this sad girl autumn, and while they acknowledge the gloom that comes with this time of the year, they embrace it. This song is about accepting the world’s faults while maintaining Libra’s inherent warmth. While they may not be marrying alligator tour guides this fall, Libras will definitely be blasting Lana.

Scorpio

Autumn includes spooky Scorpio season, so it’s safe to say this sign is ready to flourish during their moody month in the sun. Like Lorde, Scorpios are timeless, and even with another year passing, they invite the attention that comes during their birthday month. In Ribs, Lorde admits her fears of getting older in the lyrics of this song, while the tempo conveys the dread that comes along with the season. The upbeat tempo exudes the poise of a true Scorpio who is capable of fully embracing the emotional ups and downs of autumn.

Sagittarius

Fun-loving on the outside, Sagittarius has a gloomy side that they don’t show to just anyone. Halloween by Phoebe Bridgers is the perfect anthem for a Sagittarius to turn on and get deep into their emotions on shorter fall days. Whether they’re getting over an ex or need a quick moody vibe before it’s time to face the demands of everyday life, this song is one that Sagittarius will definitely want to add to their fall playlist. Plus, nobody quite does sad girl autumn like Phoebe Bridgers.

Capricorn

The hardworking Capricorn needs to slow down and take a breath this fall. It can be hard to get this sign to slow down, but it’s much needed after a busy, jam-packed summer. Like Charli xcx, Capricorn signs were everywhere this past season, but now it’s time to take a break and relax while looking forward to the future. Capricorns are known for their resilient personalities, but it’s good to feel those feelings every now and then and let your sensitive side come through. So I is Charli’s tribute to fellow artist SOPHIE, and it’s a powerful ballad about grief, which is exactly in line with the autumn spirit.

Aquarius

Ever-eclectic Aquarius signs are beloved for their creative personalities. However, Aquarius signs are also incredibly independent, leading them to detach from those closest to them. beabadoobee is a great artist for this sign who craves closeness but sometimes doesn’t know how to ask for it. Sad girl autumn doesn’t have to be defined by melancholic ballads, and the upbeat but sentimental song the perfect pair is the perfect example of that.

Pisces

Fall kicked off with a Lunar eclipse in this sign, so it’s the season of change for Pisces. Known as one of the most emotional zodiac signs of all, Gracie Abrams’ lyrics in Augusta will offer a helping hand to a Pisces deep in their feelings. This song is all about the aching heartbreak of feeling lost in your life. Pisces signs are no strangers to feeling all of their emotions deeply, and fall is a great time to work through any lingering resentment in their hearts.

Isn’t it true that when you don’t know what to wear, you reach for jeans and a tee? We’ve all been there: aimlessly staring into our closets, waiting for something to jump out at us—only, it never does. Pressed for time, you rush to the nearest pair of blue jeans and a crisp white tee, having full faith that everything will work out by the time you hit the front door.

No matter your style inclination, we’ve all pledged our allegiance to the loyal combo at one point or another. Whether you’re joining a friend for coffee or meeting your significant other for dinner, a good jeans-and-a-tee outfit is as versatile as they come. But that doesn’t mean the dependable duo needs to feel boring; with just a few chic add-ons, it’s anything but.

Although I like to rep my favorite denim year-round, come fall, I’m ready to style my blue jeans on a regular basis. As someone whose style leans a bit more trend-forward, I find the fool-proof formula to be the perfect base for those more fashionable pieces. Determined to make my jeans-and-a-tee outfits more interesting this fall, I’ve set out to find new ways to revamp the tried-and-true duo.

7 Ways to Style Your Jeans and Tee This Fall

Styling your jeans and tee comes down to two things: layering and accessorizing. Stylistically speaking, accessories are what help to propel your outfit in its intended direction–whether that’s a simple outfit for a casual Saturday or a more fashion-forward one for a night out. Although my personal styling choices lean more colorful and trendy, you can adjust every outfit through the lens of your own personal style. No one’s closet, schedule, or budget looks the same. Whether you own similar pieces or don’t have anything close, know that there are always ways to add interest without purchasing anything new, like trying a fresh hairstyle, adding your everyday hoops, or simply cuffing your jeans.

With a Blazer

Name an outfit that doesn’t work with a blazer… I’ll wait. For me, I like an outer layer with a bit more structure, especially when it’s combined with more relaxed pieces like jeans and a tee. The denim combo usually leans a bit more casual, but when paired with a blazer, feels a lot more put-together. And although adding a blazer is a more polished choice, it doesn’t mean the look needs to lose its casual feeling. Depending on your footwear, the look remains totally customizable to your occasion, whether that be a quick evening stroll or a dinner date with a friend.

With a Draped Sweater

The answer is no, I never plan on taking the sweater off of my shoulders and wearing it for its intended use. It is simply for show, and that’s the way I like it. Look, I know the idea seems totally ridiculous, but in my mind, there is no greater accessory (and yes, I mean accessory) than a colorful knit draped over your shoulders. It delivers texture, creates depth, and gives that cool-girl je ne sais quoi when you need it most.

With a Textured Coat

You like the coat? Yeah, she’s new, but you don’t have to purchase anything new in order to achieve this look at home. What’s important here is the added texture that the coat is helping to provide. Don’t own any suede? Pick an accessory or a layer in an opposing material, like a brushed cashmere sweater or a worn-in leather jacket, and it’ll work just the same.

With a Statement Belt

Although it may look like I just went to the nearest home improvement store and asked for a foot of rope to tie around my waist, I can assure that this particular piece of rope came from a swanky boutique in the Greek island of Paros. I know, I know—I could have DIY-ed this, but I’m just not that kind of girl. Statement belts, whether Home Depot-coded or not, have the ability to completely transform any look, especially something as simple as jeans and a tee.

With a Silk Scarf

Should I go ahead and hire a talent manager? Because I think I’m about to go viral for reinstating the silk scarf belt. But in all seriousness, I love incorporating the vintage accessory into my day-to-day looks. Just recently, I discovered a small stack of silk scarves in the back of my closet and experienced a sudden pang of sadness for not finding a way to style them sooner. When I first acquired them in a local thrift shop, I reveled in their untold stories and promised to give them a second life. After rediscovering them a few weeks ago, I’ve vowed to give them a permanent front-row spot in my wardrobe.

With a Bold Bag

I’m usually a sucker for a fun accessory. Although I keep a minimalist wardrobe, I’ve never really been much of an outfit repeater (sorry, Lizzie). Sure, I may rewear the same pieces over and over again, but thanks to my well-stocked accessory arsenal, you’d think I was wearing a completely new look every time (take that, Kate Sanders).

With a Cardigan

Though it may seem obvious, we often forget about the simple power of pairing a cardigan with jeans. It’s a great reminder that sometimes it’s OK to stick to the basics. Plus, wearing a white tee under a sweater or a cardigan will give it welcomed additional texture.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tinsley Crisp, Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer

Tinsley Crisp is a Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer at The Everygirl and specializes in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. As a New York City-based stylist, she’s committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.

Personally, I consider treating myself to a new sweater each fall an essential act of self-care. I light one of my favorite fall candles, make myself an extra hot chai latte, put on a Meg Ryan movie, and suspend my belief that money can’t buy happiness. Because come October, when the leaves begin to change and my favorite brands start pumping out their coziest items yet, money can buy me happiness—in the form of fabulous knitwear.

This year, there’s a twist: I’m determined to invest in pieces that’ll last a lifetime, not just a season. I’ve done the hunting (you can thank me later) and have found Sézane to be the place for high-quality knits that stand the test of time. And I’m not the only one. Our team is loving Sezane’s selection this season, so we’ve rounded up all the pieces we’re obsessed with from the 2024 collection, so you can indulge in your own knitwear ritual.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Paige Cushman, Branded Content Editor

From small community newspapers to country music marketing, Paige has found the most fulfillment in finding and sharing the uniquely human stories that compel an audience. As a Branded Content Editor at The Everygirl, she is able to combine her excitement about women’s issues and pop culture with her editorial skills to create quality content for our brand partners.

This post is sponsored by Sézane but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. We only recommend products we genuinely love.

Jessica Friedhoff is the Senior Lifestyle Editor at The Everygirl, where she oversees the Home & Living category of the site. She has nearly seven years of experience reviewing products, covering trends, and creating inspiring content around all things home.

We all know that fall starts as soon as fresh school supplies and aggressively scented cinnamon brooms line grocery store aisles. It is a transition loved by many (fall is literally America’s favorite season)—but TBH, I can’t relate. While I’ll never turn down an opportunity to cozy up and watch re-runs of Gilmore Girls, this time of the year just doesn’t do it for me. Truth be told, I often find myself unmotivated to work hard and reach my goals during this time of year, and I generally just feel “meh” most of the time. If you’re like me and also find the transition from summer to fall a nightmare, especially for your work life, there’s a strong chance you’re no stranger to “autumn burnout.”

What is “autumn burnout,” and what causes it?

The term “autumn burnout” refers to feeling completely mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausted during the transition from summer to fall. While this can stem from things such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), it’s often a direct result of the increased pressures and demands that go against our biological body clock.

Where summer is all about relaxation and long days outside filled with vitamin D, fall is all about cooler weather, shorter days, and more time spent indoors. Not only can this lack of physical activity and sunlight seriously affect our energy levels, but it can also leave us feeling unmotivated to work hard and reach our goals. Plus, transition anxiety is very real, and a change in season and climate can be triggering for those who have a hard time dealing with change. *raises hand*

Signs you’re suffering from autumn burnout

While everyone is different, there are some telltale signs that mean you’re suffering from autumn burnout. So, use these universal red flags to spot when you’re approaching or suffering from burnout this fall:

1. You feel unmotivated and exhausted

If you’re dreading what’s on your calendar, are struggling to complete tasks, and feel overwhelmed by literally everything, you’re likely suffering from autumn burnout. This is especially true if these feelings are ongoing. Unlike normal fatigue, exhaustion burnout can’t be cured by a good night’s sleep, and taking a work break won’t restore your motivation or ambition.

2. You’re experiencing sleep issues

It’s no secret that getting the right amount of beauty rest each night is imperative for your health, but you’re more likely to experience sleep issues when you’re burnt out. This is because stress releases adrenaline and cortisol, and these two hormones trigger the body’s fight-or-flight response and in turn make you more alert. If you’re feeling particularly stressed during the day and are having trouble falling asleep and staying asleep, it’s likely a result of burnout.

“If you’re dreading what’s on your calendar, are struggling to complete tasks, and feel overwhelmed by literally everything, you’re likely suffering from autumn burnout.”

3. You’re apathetic about your job

They say if you love what you do you’ll never work a day in your life, but I beg to differ. While I love my job and wouldn’t change it for a thing, there are still days when work feels like work. So if you’re passionate about your career but find yourself growing indifferent towards or frustrated with it, you’re likely burnt out. Likewise, experiencing decreased productivity and overall work performance are also major signs of autumn burnout.

4. You’re cynical and irritable

Cynicism and irritability are two major red flags that you’re approaching burnout or are already there. After all, burnout makes you more susceptible to lower mood levels because it depletes your mental, emotional, and physical resources. If you’re more pessimistic than usual, there’s a strong chance you’re experiencing autumn burnout.

How to treat autumn burnout

1. Prioritize a healthy work-life balance

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is truly key to treating burnout as the seasons change. This means setting boundaries between your work and personal life—not answering emails after a certain time, clocking in and out at a reasonable hour, making your weekends all about you and forgetting about work, and so on. Additionally, give yourself time to recharge every single day. Let yourself indulge in a morning workout or a nice breakfast and unwind with some reading or journaling in the evening after work. Setting aside time for yourself will allow you to decompress, de-stress, and release whatever’s bothering you.

2. Focus on your health

Health is wealth, and you naturally feel more motivated and perform better at work when you feel good inside and out. So, treat burnout by prioritizing getting enough sleep every night, exercising regularly, drinking plenty of water, and eating well. You’ll feel strong and well-equipped to handle whatever comes your way and able to prevent burnout easily because you’ll feel good. Plus, taking care of yourself will make you feel proud and accomplished. 

3. Plan ahead

Planning ahead is one of the easiest ways to ease anxiety and stay grounded and calm during times of stress and pressure. Set aside time before the start of each week (on Friday or Sunday) and plan out your schedule; your schedule should include work priorities and tasks, chores, and other necessary appointments or errands you have to get done. By taking the time to do this, you’ll remove one extra step for yourself in the morning—you won’t have to wake up and plan out your day. In turn, this will make your days seamless, and your productivity will soar.

4. Stay connected

Isolation is one of the worst things for your mental health, and becoming disconnected is easier than ever thanks to remote jobs and busy schedules. For this reason, make an active effort to stay connected to the important people in your life on a regular basis. Regardless of whether you text or meet in person, talking to others will remind you that you’re not alone and will help you get out or stay out of a funk.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Arianna Reardon, Contributing Writer

Arianna is a Rhode Island native, professional blogger, and freelance writer. She’s passionate about helping women develop healthy relationships with money, become financially independent, and invest in themselves for the future. Arianna is a firm believer in going after what you want, taking time to stop and smell the roses, and the importance of a good cocktail.